Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars are now equipped with key fobs that allow doors to be locked and unlocked and allow you to start your car. Replacing the standard key fob typically requires a trip to the dealer who will charge you depending on the make of your car.
Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
The first step to take in the event that the key fob you have is not working is to replace its battery. These devices, which have replaced traditional keys, can do a lot more than just lock and unlock your car. Depending on how often you press them, they are constantly sending out the coded signal in a specific sequence that is sent to the car's receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs can break in time as does any other electronic device that is constantly tossed around in your pockets or purse.
If you're lucky, your new car dealer will sell replacement key fob batteries that work with your car. If not, you can locate them at many auto parts stores and at big-box retailers. You'll need a CR2032 battery usually about $2-4 American per pack of two. To avoid damaging the electronic circuit board you'll have to carefully remove the battery that was on your key fob before replacing it with the new one.
Some of the newer fobs come with a small key that can be pulled out when your keys fail to open the door or start the car. This is a useful feature, but it can be risky for people who tend to lose their keys. Others utilize a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob to open the doors. If you have trouble with this, you'll need to contact the manufacturer of your car to determine if the chip can be reset, or call a locksmith if needed.
If you can purchase a replacement key fob at a price you're comfortable with you might be able to program the key yourself. This is typically a cheaper alternative than purchasing a new key from a dealer. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs will work with your vehicle and that many require special equipment to be programmed.
Programming
Modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs, which allow you to start and unlock the car from a distance. If you lose yours or require to replace it, you might be able to program an alternative yourself. Instructions are usually available on the internet. The exact procedure is contingent on the model of your car. Some owner's manuals also include details on programming. Before you attempt to reprogramme your key fob, ensure that you have new batteries. They are cheap and easy to replace but an exhausted battery could interfere with the process. It is also a good idea to close all doors, as even one door that is left open could affect how well the fob works.
To reprogram a key fob switch off your vehicle and then remove the original key from the ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within a predetermined time frame, typically 10-30 minutes. The car may respond by turning the locks on and off and turning on the lights or emitting a chime to confirm that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional fobs that you would like to add to your car's system.
Be aware that this reprogramming method is only applicable to cars that use the same technology. If your car has an alternative key fob or has an ignition key that is separate, it will need specialized programming. This is only available by an authorized dealer.
replacement car key fob provide this service for a flat price however you may be in a position to save money by making contact with an automotive locksmith. They have the tools to do the work for less than what you'd have to pay at the dealership. They may even come to you to do the work.
Ask the dealer about the service will cost and if they provide the possibility of a guarantee. Check your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to determine if they cover any lost fobs. If you've established a good working relationship with your mechanic, he or she may even tell you about the cost of this service prior to when you make an appointment.
Dealerships
If you've lost your car keys, you may be tempted to go to the dealership to get an alternative. But dealerships often charge more than other places for this service, and may not be the most affordable price. Locksmiths and hardware stores are two other options for replacing your key fob. These places are often cheaper than the dealership and can save you money.
A car key fob lets you to unlock and start your car without using a traditional metal keys. It's typically an oval or rectangular piece of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle and activate an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs first became popular in the late 90s and a lot of cars have them as standard features. They can be a convenient way to unlock your car, but they also make it simple for thieves to take your vehicle.
The most popular car key fob model is the push button starter. It is attached to your car's ignition. These are usually found at an auto parts store or a dealership. Switchblade keys, in which the key made of metal is encased inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry key fobs are also types of car fobs. The latter are most popular because they permit you to open and start your car without physical key.
A lot of dealerships overcharge the price of key fobs since they know that customers will pay for any service needed to return their vehicle. It can be difficult to locate a replacement fob at an affordable price. However you can save money by choosing the correct battery and reprogramming it in a different manner.
If you own an old-fashioned metal key, a push-button starter, or one of the latest smart keys, you can get a replacement for it with an independent locksmith that's not associated with any particular auto manufacturer. There are many locksmiths that offer a variety of replacement keys and can cut and program them for less than the dealers. You can search a search engine in order to locate a locksmith that is independent near you.
Locksmiths
If your key fob is missing, you'll likely need to pay a professional to replace it. It may not be as costly as you think, especially if your key fob has a smart feature, like automatic locking or remote start.
Smart keys are utilized in the majority of modern vehicles to guard against theft. They work by sending a unique security code each time a key is pressed. These codes are not stored on the fob itself but instead in an embedded chip which communicates with the vehicle to unlock doors and then start it. Because of this additional layer, only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and know-how needed to reprogram these keys.
Based on the model of your car and year, you might have the option of purchasing the new key fob at an hardware store or a locksmith that specialises in automotive locksmithing for less than what it would cost through the dealer. But, you'll most likely have to hire an expert to program the fob, which might require the same equipment that the dealership employs.
Some automakers offer instructions for doing the programming yourself for key fobs online or in their owner's guides. These steps can be difficult and you may need another key fob to complete the process. It's wise for both owners and tenants to have two key fobs that function before they lose one.
If your car is equipped with a traditional key shank addition to its smart key that you can purchase a spare key at a hardware or key cutting store for a relatively low cost, assuming that the metal key doesn't get lost together with the fob. Fobs with a transponder element on both the key shank and the fob will probably require professional programming however, and this can be costly if you have to have more than one spare or if the key is required to be replaced.
Replacement fobs for German cars with a "flip", which is similar in function to a switchblade, can only be available at the dealership. The reason is that these fobs usually use a specific type of transponder that can only be reset and programmed by the dealer's service department, which is generally the only company with the necessary equipment to do this.